Gordon says he won’t run for Congress

Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon has announced that he won’t run for the congressional seat being vacated by Rep. John Shadegg.

Speculation that Gordon would run began almost as soon as Shadegg announced in January that he would not seek reelection this year, and the mayor formed an exploratory committee several weeks ago. His term as mayor ends in 2011.

“Though weighing so many complex factors took time, in the end this was an easy decision. This is the best job in the best city in America. The most effective way for me to help our city is to stay as mayor,” the Phoenix Democrat said in a press statement.

Gordon’s decision leaves businessman Jon Hulburd as the lone Democrat in the race for the 3rd Congressional District.